Few people are aware of the close connection between oral health and general health. Indeed, some oral pathologies can, when they are not cared for in time, affect the functioning of the body and cause serious consequences. This is particularly the case of gum disease and periodontal disease. In the following lines, our dentists at the Dents Mon Quartier clinic, in Lasalle, will describe to you the consequences of periodontal diseases.
Periodontal diseases: a gateway for bacteria
Gum disease and periodontal disease remain prevalent in the population. In their early stages, they are not particularly dangerous, but they can evolve rapidly and compromise oral or even general health.
In the beginning, gum disease manifests itself in the form of gingivitis: it is an infection of the gingival tissues (gums) that is manifested by redness, swelling of the gums and bleeding when brushing teeth and flossing. Thanks to the good hygiene care, we can treat gingivitis to slow down its evolution. When nothing is done, gingivitis can turn into periodontitis: the inflammation then extends from the gums to other tissues that hold our teeth in place (periodontal tissues), including periodontal ligaments and the alveolar jawbone. Bacteria can then irreversibly damage the periodontal tissue, which can have serious consequences on the integrity of the smile. It is therefore of primary importance to prevent periodontitis.
Gingivitis and periodontitis are often caused by the build-up of plaque and tartar. These substances contain harmful bacteria that can also enter the blood stream and reach other parts of the body ...
Periodontal diseases: consequences for general health
Because periodontal disease is a gateway to other parts of the body for bacteria, bacteria can reach different organs. Scientific studies have shown that periodontal diseases can be the cause of some serious health problems, so here are the main ones:
- Cardiovascular Disease: Bacteria responsible for periodontal disease, when entering the blood stream, can cause systemic inflammation that can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. People who suffer from gum disease are therefore more likely to be affected by serious problems, such as stroke.
- Lung Disease: Bacteria that cause periodontitis can also cause pneumonia or other serious respiratory problems, especially in smokers and the elderly.
- Alzheimer's disease: The type of bacteria most commonly associated with periodontitis in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease was found.
- Arthritis: inflammation of the periodontal tissues and inflammation of the joints that causes arthritis are closely related.
- Diabetes: The presence of periodontal diseases can make controlling blood glucose in people with diabetes much more complex. Treating gum disease when suffering from diabetes can therefore reduce the risks associated with this disease.
- Risks during pregnancy: There is a link between periodontal diseases and premature births, since the bacteria responsible for periodontitis can cause the release of a hormone in the body that stimulates childbirth.
How to prevent periodontal diseases?
To prevent the serious health consequences associated with gum disease and periodontal disease, it is important to do the right things every day:
- Brushing teeth after each meal helps prevent the build-up of plaque in the gums;
- Daily flossing can dislodge as much plaque as possible and prevent tartar formation;
- Regular visits to your dentist will allow the dentist to quickly diagnose gingivitis and provide you with the care needed to prevent it from progressing to periodontitis;
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption is essential to maintaining healthy gums.
Does the health of your gums worry you? Contact us immediately to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists!
Approved by Dre Charouk
Dr. Joumana Charouk, D.M.D, is proud to offer her patients exceptional care that combines experience, efficiency and good humor.
Dre Joumana Charouk, D.M.D